Long-Term Complications of Diabetes

Diabetes can cause health problems over time. These are called complications. They are more likely to happen if your blood sugar is often too high. Over time, high blood sugar can damage blood vessels in your body. It is important to keep your blood sugar in your target range. This can help prevent or delay complications from diabetes.

Possible complications

Complications of diabetes include:

Eye problems, including damage to the blood vessels in the eyes (retinopathy), pressure in the eye (glaucoma), and clouding of the eye’s lens (a cataract). Eye problems can eventually lead to irreversible blindness.

How to avoid complications

The serious consequences of these complications may be avoidable for most people with diabetes by managing your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. This can help you feel better and stay healthy. You can manage diabetes by tracking your blood sugar. You can also eat healthy and exercise to avoid gaining weight. And you should take medicine if directed by your healthcare provider.